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Community College Tour

WGIL, Illinois Radio Network
February 10, 2011

Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon's "complete college" tour is under way. It began with a meeting of community college presidents in Bloomington.

Simon told the presidents that a college education helps boost the workforce and stimulates the economy. "Having more Illinoisans with higher education means good business for Illinois, that's how we get more prosperity in Illinois, that's what we need for our future," Simon said.

Simon said dropout rates must go down in order for this effort to be successful. Heartland Community College President Allen Goben said Simon's initiative will help get the state back on track. "The lieutenant governor's interest in engaging dialogue with community colleges is just really exciting and it's very timely. Anytime would be good but particularly when the economy is the way it is, people want solutions," he said.

Gov. Pat Quinn designated Simon as his education point person. Simon said she plans to visit all 48 community colleges in the state.